Lehigh Valley Zoo Needs Your Help

The following is a recent email pitch for the financially strapped Lehigh Valley Zoo, which I'll share with you.

As you may have read in the Morning Call last week, Lehigh County is working with the Lehigh Valley Zoo to come up with a plan to improve the Zoo's financial sustainability. Please note that the vast majority of zoos throughout the country receive local or state financial support to survive. It is crucial that the people of Lehigh County (and beyond) show our support of the Lehigh Valley Zoo right now by adding our own support - through financial contributions, Zoo attendance and memberships - to the County's support. The Zoo is a treasure right here in our backyard, it is a wonderful enticement for people and businesses thinking about moving to the Lehigh Valley, and it is a tourist attraction of which we all can be proud as it is not only a fun place to visit but also a leader in conservation and education.

Time is of the essence. Here is how you can help right now:

1) Please send in a donation in whatever amount you are able - as soon as possible - to the Lehigh Valley Zoo, 5150 Game Preserve Road, P.O. Box 519, Schnecksville, PA 18078 or by phone at 610-799-4171. This tax-deductible donation is a very important and needed investment in the Zoo's future, especially now.

2) Please forward this email to your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, and others and encourage them to join in this effort to make a showing to both the Zoo and Lehigh County that we want the Zoo to thrive, that the community supports our local zoo and that we also need the County to continue working together to find a long-term financial plan to ensure the Zoo's success.

3) Given that we are in the midst of the holiday season, don't forget that a Lehigh Valley Zoo membership makes a wonderful gift for those on your list! Please see www.lvzoo.org or call 610-799-4171 to become a member or give the gift of membership - a gift that lasts all year!

4) The penguins are here! Please visit the Zoo soon (It is open 362 days a year, weather permitting!) and see them having a splashing good time! Special penguin events will be featured at the Zoo every weekend in January.